Tear down of ASC building begins at MSUB

Building demolition part of MUS long-range building program

Contacts:

University Relations and Communications, 657-2266

MSU BILLINGS NEWS SERVICES —Demolition of the 60+year-old Academic Support Center (ASC) building at Montana
State University Billings university campus began this week. The Montana University
System’ Board of Regents (BOR) approved the demolition project as part of their long-range
building program at their March 2018 meeting.

The ASC was originally built in 1955 as the Student Union Building. This building
was designed by the Billings firm of Nordquist & Sundell. As conceived, it consisted
of a lounge, hall, dining area, bookstore, game room, and offices. In 1995, a new
addition to the building was designed by the Billings firm of Drake-Gustafson Associates.

That year, it was converted to the ASC, where it served the function of supporting
students through tutoring, educational support classes, and testing. The ASC is now
located within the Student Union Building which was renovated in 2011 as part of a
multi-phased university master plan project.

The ASC building ceased being used in 2011 due to its age and deteriorated condition
of the building. The ASC area will be converted into green space for the enjoyment
of students, faculty, staff, and the Billings community. The full demolition and conversion
to greenspace is expected to be complete prior to the start of the Fall 2018 semester.

This demolition eliminates over $1 million in deferred maintenance for MSU Billings.
“We began the LRBP process for this project in 2013, so today marks a huge milestone
for Facilities Services and MSU Billings,” shared director of Facilities Services
Jason McGimpsey.